Scientists have discovered why roses are red, claiming their striking colour has evolved to deter predators.

Naturalists have always believed that flowers had developed a bright and vibrant appearance to attract insects, mammals and birds needed for cross-pollination.

But biologists from three universities have published a report which disproves the theory - claiming the striking red colour deters herbivores because of high cyanide levels. See ladies. You really don't want those poisonous red roses after all!:p